Clinical trials and research studies are important tools in the discovery of new treatments against cancer. Clinical trials contribute important knowledge and may lead to new breakthroughs in the treatment of cancer. If a new treatment proves effective in a study, it may become a new standard treatment that can help many patients. Most of today's most effective standard treatments are based on previous study results, such as those for breast, colon, rectal, and childhood cancers. Patients who participate may be helped personally by the treatment(s) they receive. Trial participants get up-to-date care from cancer experts, and they receive either a new treatment being tested or the best available standard treatment for their cancer. Of course, there is no guarantee that a new treatment being tested or a standard treatment will produce good results. New treatments also may have unknown risks. But, if a new treatment proves effective, or more effective, than standard treatment, study patients who receive it may be among the first to benefit. Many patients receiving standard treatment benefit from it. In the past, clinical trials were sometimes seen as a last resort for people who had no other treatment choices. Today, patients with common cancers often choose to receive their first treatment in a clinical trial. The following Johns Hopkins trials currently being evaluated in order to improve the efficacy of colorectal cancer treatments are open to anyone meeting the eligibiligy criteria. For additional information please call our clinical trials specialist at (410) 614-3163
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